What a semester! I can’t recall a time during my 20 years in higher education that weather has been such an issue. I’d like to provide you with a “snapshot” of what Brian Opitz, Executive Director of Operations, and I analyze when weather comes into play.

Yesterday’s storm was unique with ice, snow, and then more ice. Conditions of roads to and from our five campus locations are something we consider. Yesterday, the satisfactory clearing of parking lots at our BC3 location and, of course, sidewalks, was the biggest issue. Plus, students, faculty and staff had problems with their own driveways.

Earlier today, I received information from the Lieutenant Governor’s office regarding the Commonwealth’s safety and security over the next several days. He stated that Hurricane Sandy and its impact on all of Pennsylvania – including Western PA – is not “overhyped.” Residents should expect massive power outages due to wind, falling trees and branches. Residents should expect restoration of power and services AFTER the storm has passed.

With this in mind, BC3 and all of its campus sites will cancel classes and activities for this evening – Monday, October 29.

For Tuesday, October 30, BC3 and all of its campus sites will open at 9:30 a.m.

Stay tuned tomorrow morning for further information regarding College operations.

As you know, the eastern United States is preparing for Hurricane Sandy. We at BC3 are also preparing for and monitoring the situation.

In the event that the College needs to delay or cancel operations, we will use our traditional means of conveying the information as early as possible. This includes bc3.edu, emails, media announcements and text messaging.

I love the fall. A new academic year, football (although this past Sunday was not good for the Steelers), and the autumn landscape are just some of the reasons.

Today’s weather is absolutely wonderful – especially on our main campus in Butler.

But this week’s forecast is predicting change. By week’s end, western Pennsylvania will be hit with colder temps, wind and precipitation (perhaps, even snow). Two weeks ago, the central part of Pennsylvania got whacked with up to several inches of snow. Read the rest of this entry »

Decisions to delay, close and/or keep open our BC3 locations is something we take seriously. The process starts as storm possibilities hit the media. I communicate with the Director of Operations, Brian Optiz, as we track the storm. Phone calls, emails, texts and meetings with Brian also include other members of the BC3 administrative team. Much of our work takes place as early as 4:30 a.m. Read the rest of this entry »